As a makeup and organic airbrush tan artist it’s no secret that I’m a beauty product junkie! I try anything and everything regarding makeup and skin care! Not only does that keep me on top of my A game, but it allows me to make genuine recommendations to my clients based on my own personal experience!
Most women get overwhelmed when they walk through the cosmetics department, or cosmetics stores like Ulta or Sephora because of all the brands and products available to them. Having so many choices is so wonderful, but can be confusing. Here’s my list of makeup essentials for your own personal kit! I make some brand recommendations, but this is more of a guide of what basic products you should have in your arsenal!
Brushes
Having the right tools will make your makeup application flawless! The rule of thumb is to have a brush that’s in proportion to the area you are using it for. For example, larger brushes are for face powder and blush, smaller brushes are used for areas that require precision (eyes, lips). Natural hair brushes are for powder products and synthetic brushes work well for cream based products. There are great synthetic brushes that feel like natural hair, for cruelty free, vegan options. I recommend getting a basic brush set and always remember to clean your brushes AT LEAST once a month.
Concealer/foundation
This by far is my favorite cosmetic product! If I were stranded on a deserted island I wouldn’t want to be without some cover up. My all time favorite products for both foundation and concealer are Limelife by Alcone Perfect Foundation and Perfect Concealer. Their botanical products are all natural with a high percentage of pigment so a little goes a long way! You can build up coverage for a flawless effect and the finish looks like skin, not makeup.
Blush
Adding a hint of color to your cheeks pulls your whole look together! Blush is available in creams and powders. For dry skin types or older skin I like using a cream blush, either in a pot or stick. It gives a more luminous youthful effect. Apply it to the “apple” of your cheeks and blend it in for a natural effect. One of my favorites is Milk Makeup Blush & Lip Tint. This product goes on seamlessly and gives a beautiful healthy glow, doubling as cheek AND lip color. It’s vegan, cruelty free, gluten free, soy and talc free. I love the color choices too!
Eyeliner/Mascara
Hands down, eyes are where it’s at when it comes to giving yourself that pop! Brows are the framework of your eyes and should be groomed and filled in with the right touch of makeup application. You can use a pencil, powder, or gel and don’t forget to brush it into your own brows for a natural effect. Anastasia of Beverly Hills has amazing brow makeup products.
Eyeliner defines your eyes and gives you the illusion of fuller lashes. It also allows you to open up your eyes and/or slightly adjust your eye shape. Pencil, dry/wet powders, gel, and liner pens give you great options for making the most of your eyes. Some of my favorite eyeliner products are Inglot gel liner, Thrive Causemetics retractable pencil (for water line) and Limelife by Alcone Perfect Eyeliner Pen.
Mascara is another product that has endless options. You can get volume, length, the list goes on. I’m a huge fan of Thrive Causemetics mascara. It has built in fibers that add volume and length, giving the effect of thicker, fuller lashes. You’ll think you’re wearing lash strips!
Lip Color
There’s nothing like the pop of lip color to lift your spirits! A little color goes a long way for a pick me up. Today there are endless options of colors and textures for any look that you want to achieve. Whether you choose a red lip or nude lip or anything in between you will still be on trend. I say try them all! Like shoes, you can never have enough lipsticks in your collection. Some of my favorite lipsticks of all time are Mac Ruby Woo and Honey Love, both classic red and nude lip colors that look great on all different skin tones. When it comes to lips the sky is the limit! I love sheer tints and mattes and glosses, lip stains, full coverage lipsticks. Don’t be afraid to experiment, you can’t go wrong with different looks.
Well there you have it! The basics for your personal makeup kit, a great “foundation” that you can build upon!
Marta Bota
Beauty Editor
Marta Bota is a pro celebrity makeup artist with over 25 years experience in the fashion, TV, bridal industries. She currently works with Comcast NBC Universal and has worked with CNN, HBO, FOX News Channel to name a few! She teaches makeup lessons and teen workshops. Marta holds the title of Ms. Virginia America 2016 and is a philanthropist. Ms. Bota contributes articles on beauty routines and makeup tips throughout the seasons!
